Etihad Airways has unveiled a new stopover program aimed at easing travel to Abu Dhabi by providing complimentary hotel accommodation for passengers.
Under the new initiative, travelers booking roundtrip flights directly via etihad.com can avail up to two free hotel nights in Abu Dhabi, the airline announced. Passengers have the option to include the stopover while making their booking.
Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad’s CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the program’s potential to attract over 100,000 visitors to Abu Dhabi within the next year. He highlighted the collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi to showcase the emirate’s attractions globally.
Participating travelers can select from a range of 3- and 4-star hotels, though breakfast and additional amenities are not included.
A nominal fee of $9.99 is applicable for travelers utilizing the stopover. However, certain blackout dates apply, including Nov. 3 to Nov. 8, Dec. 5 to Dec. 8, and Dec. 23 to Jan. 2.
In addition to the complimentary accommodation, Etihad’s boarding pass serves as an Abu Dhabi Pass, offering discounts on popular attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Etihad joins other airlines like Icelandair and TAP Portugal in offering free stopover programs in their hub cities. Previously, Etihad’s free stopover program was exclusive to first class, business class, and Residence passengers.
The move to expand stopover opportunities in Abu Dhabi coincides with Etihad’s launch of a new route between Boston and Abu Dhabi, as well as the reintroduction of its Airbus A380 aircraft on one of its daily flights between Abu Dhabi and New York. The A380 features the renowned three-room first class suite known as “The Residence,” which was initially slated for retirement during the pandemic.
Furthermore, Etihad recently enhanced its partnership with JetBlue, allowing travelers to earn and redeem points within each airline’s loyalty program.